Nintendo's latest handheld has quickly become one of the greatest gaming systems in recent memory. With a robust library full of diverse and unique titles, there's something for everyone on this 3D-powered device. If you've held off on purchasing the platform, there's really no better time to jump on board. Even if you already have one, there's a good chance you don't have all the amazing games available. As such, we've compiled the perfect guide that highlights the best on 3DS for you right here.
While 5th Cell's fourth proper installment in the Scribblenauts franchise features many of the same mechanics from the prior entries, Unlimited takes the word-building experience to new heights with a fully fleshed-out story and world to explore. Instead of just hopping from level to level, players are free to roam and gain a better understanding of the protagonist, Maxwell. Sure, it isn't profoundly deep, but its charm more than makes up for it.
24. Code of Princess
This hack and slash role-playing game is worth a look from any fan of JRPGs. With a focus on action, it's a bit more involved than a traditional game of its ilk and boasts several different modes and a staggering amount of unique playable characters. In addition to a story-centric campaign, Code of Princess also features a multiplayer mode that supports up to four players.
23. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney – Dual Destinies
Despite being a digital-only release here in North America, Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney – Dual Destinies is worthy of being recognized as a proper next entry in the series. With a well-crafted story wrapped around unforgettable court cases, the latest adventure of Phoenix Wright doesn't disappoint. It also takes excellent advantage of the hardware's 3D capabilities, making this one of the most gorgeous games available on the platform.
22. Star Fox 64 3D
This entry really needs no explanation. Star Fox 64 was an amazing game back on the Nintendo 64 and it's an amazing game on 3DS. Thanks to improved visuals and the addition of 3D, this is Star Fox like you've never experienced it before. It's got the same great gameplay you remember from the original, but the fresh coat of paint really makes it feel like a new experience. Hardcore fans and newcomers alike can't afford to pass this excellent remake up.
The Mario & Luigi role-playing games are favorites among the Nintendo faithful, and Dream Team serves up yet another charming adventure. The goofy humor is back, as Luigi hogs a bit more of the spotlight this time around. Sure, it may not be as impressive as some of the earlier entries in the series, but surpassing greatness is an incredibly difficult task.
20. Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D
One of Wii's best exclusive games made its way to 3DS in the form of Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D. This excellent port does away with the controversial motion controls in favor of a much more traditional gameplay experience. And, as has been the case with other 3DS ports, the added 3D effect looks absolutely fantastic. It may not prove essential to the experience, but the added feature certainly doesn't do any harm. The game also offers a more casual-friendly mode, which has proven to be a much welcomed addition.
19. Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan
This role-playing game from Atlus is every bit as amazing as fans of the franchise have come to expect. The Etrian Odyssey games are for truly hardcore gamers, and the fourth installment is no exception. It's got an engrossing story, a cast of memorable characters, and a deep combat system that series veterans will feel right at home with.
18. Mario Kart 7
There's a reason the Mario Kart games have proven to be one of Nintendo's most valuable franchises. The seventh proper installment in the series made its way to 3DS as what is arguably the greatest entry yet. With incredible track design, the addition of hang-gliders, and robust online multiplayer support, there's a lot to love about this handheld version of Mario Kart. The fact that the talented EAD team and Retro Studios were behind this title should come as no surprise.
17. Pushmo
Intelligent Systems' clever downloadable block-pushing puzzle game may be simple in premise, but its simplicity can't be overlooked. There's a lot of depth to the basic block-manipulating mechanic, which is a real testament to the development prowess of the team behind this charming digital title. It's insanely charming thanks to an endearing art style, which is impossible not to love.
16. Cave Story 3D
Cave Story 3D takes the classic Cave Story experience and brings it into three dimensions. With a remixed soundtrack, retooled visuals from the ground up, and a number of other new features, the 3DS version is easily the best around. It's an amazing title that combines elements from classic NES games of old and wraps them all together into a single amazing package. It shouldn't be missed by any gamer looking for a compelling blast from the past.
The Paper Mario games have become favorites among the Nintendo faithful, thanks to the unique blend of puzzle, platforming, and role-playing elements. Sticker Star takes the formula in a wildly different direction by incorporating a sticker mechanic. While this has proven to be a polarizing gimmick among fans of the franchise, it's hard not to admire the game's insane level of creativity.
14. Zero Escape: Virtue's Last Reward
This Chunsoft-developed adventure game is unlike anything you've ever experienced on a Nintendo handheld. It's incredibly dark and mature, serving up a disturbing and deep story that isn't for the faint of heart. If you appreciate games for their narratives and can do without all of the gameplay frills, then Zero Escape: Virtue's Last Reward will serve up an experience you won't soon forget.
13. Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl
This brilliant remake of the original Etrian Odyssey is everything fans of the franchise could ever want. It contains both a Classic mode and Story mode. As such, players are treated to a complete and robust adventure filled with a deep story, cutscenes, voice acting… the whole nine yards. JRPG fans looking for a solid game on the go will find loads of value in The Millennium Girl.
12. Resident Evil: Revelations
It's no secret that the mainline Resident Evil games haven't been particularly great these past few years, but Revelations proves that there's still some magic left in the series. With stunning visuals and surprisingly great gameplay for a handheld horror title, this is easily the best Resident Evil game since RE4. If you haven't yet played it and consider yourself a fan of the franchise, don't make the mistake of writing it off just because it doesn't have a number at the end of the title. In fact, it's one of the few handheld titles that have been remade for stand-up consoles. How often does that happen?
Say what you want about the wonky control scheme, but Kid Icarus Uprising is a great return for the franchise since its inception on NES. With high-speed action and incredible production values, this is one heck of a showpiece for 3DS. It's also a blast to play, once you wrap your head around the cumbersome controls.
10. Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance
While the wait for Kingdom Hearts III has been excruciatingly long, Square Enix released a wonderful portable entry to tide fans over. Dream Drop Distance is very much a Kingdom Hearts game, making little sacrifices on the gameplay front. It serves up a robust action-packed role-playing experience much like the mainline entries and has a great story to boot.
9. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time was a masterpiece back on the Nintendo 64, and it's still very much a masterpiece on the 3DS now. Instead of taking the lazy way out and simply porting the old game to the handheld, the graphics were completely redone, yielding an experience that looks absolutely gorgeous in three dimensions. The gameplay remains relatively unchanged, but still feels great—a testament to the lasting quality of this forward-thinking classic.
Remember that charming GameCube title that starred a vacuum-equipped Luigi? I don't know about you, but I loved that game and always feared we'd never get a sequel. Fortunately, Nintendo proved me wrong with the release of Dark Moon, a follow-up that trumps the original Luigi's Mansion in just about every regard. Mario's brother certainly got the attention he deserved in 2013.
One of the greatest aspects of all the Final Fantasy games has been its music. With some of the most memorable soundtracks around, the decision to make a game that highlights these musical works of art in a single package was ingenious. While the gameplay itself is rather simple, relying on a touch-based rhythm mechanic, it's enough to keep you engaged as you listen to some of the greatest music ever conceived.
The folks over at Atlus know how to make amazing role-playing games, and Shin Megami Tensei IV is no exception. It's got a cast of memorable characters, a sophisticated story full of twists and turns, and a deep battle system that will have you engrossed for dozens and dozens of hours. If you're looking for a hardcore JRPG that provides you with the most bang for your buck, look no further.
There's a reason why the Pokémon games sell incredibly well for Nintendo. Time and time again, Game Freak manages to serve up a fresh batch of games that outdoes the prior generation in every regard while still retaining the core that gives the series its identity. Pokémon X & Y takes the franchise in a bold new direction, finally ushering Nintendo's addictive creature-collecting adventure into 3D, and no, not just in stereoscopic ways. Plus, there's a whole bunch of new creatures to collect and an added online component. Honestly, what's not to love?
Nintendo continues to prove that Mario games will never grow stale by constantly innovating on the classic platforming formula. Super Mario 3D Land takes advantage of the handheld's 3D capabilities to serve up a Mario experience like never before. If the classic 2D entries in the series are beginning to feel a bit stale, but you've still got a hankering for more of the Italian plumber, this is one portable title that simply must be in your game library.
There's simply so much to love about Fire Emblem Awakening it isn't even funny. With a deep turn-based strategy experience layered atop an engrossing narrative that is shaped by your decisions on the battlefield, you'll be hard pressed to find a better game in its genre. It's also got some of the most beautiful cutscenes you'll find on Nintendo's 3D-powered system. If you're a fan of strategy/tactical games, this one is an absolute must.
If you're looking for the ultimate time sink, search no further than Animal Crossing: New Leaf. This clever, little town-maintaining simulation will have you coming back to your 3DS each and every day to check up on your neighbors, go fishing, gardening, or any of the other million tasks just begging to be accomplished. It's loaded with charm and has just the right balance between work and reward. A shining example of excellent game design.
1. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
How do you make a sequel to one of the greatest games of all time and not end up crushed under the weight of nostalgia and hype? You take an excellent framework and make bold new changes. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is more than just a sequel to A Link to the Past, it's a nostalgia trip riddled with fan service that at the same time takes the franchise in some bold new directions. The painting mechanic is absolutely ingenious, and the item rental service turns the game's tried-and-true formula on its head, yielding an experience that feels completely fresh yet wonderfully familiar.
What do you think of our picks? Agree? Disagree? Let us know in the comments below.
